The reality of tomorrow remains a mystery to us. Children often dream of the future. They speculate happily about what they will be when they grow up. Old people, on the other hand, tend to live in the past, weaving daydreams out of their memories of people, places and events from long ago. So often, their conversations begin with 'When I was young.....or When your mother was just a girl...' as if they would like to turn back time. Turn back the clock and replay these events, can it happen? It is an impossible dream! The future is unknown. Whatever is going to happen, will happen. There is no need for either joyful anticipation or anxiety. Likewise, no matter how wonderful our yesterdays may have been, nothing in the world can bring them back. It is pointless to wish for the beautiful past to return. Whatever has occurred remains an unchangeable truth. We are precious because we are living beings with conscience, knowing what is right and what is wrong. All that we truely have is the present moment. Live in the present, for our present thoughts and actions will determine our future. The real issue in our lives is the issue of life and death. Once the Messenger of Death arrives, all aspects of life whether they are from the past, present or future, are beyond our interventions. The lessons of the past are our best guide in the present. They offer both a reference for the future planning and guide. If we are young, then see the virtues of others, learn from them so that we can be like them. If we encounter anyone who is less than virtuous, we can take this opportunity to reflect upon ourselves. You can see that the past, present and future are one. Yesterday, today and tomorrow are all in one body, so they have a very close relationship. In our short lifespan, it is most important that we know how to cherish the present and work hard to fully utilize each moment. A better future will manifest as we mend our previous wrongs and continue our good deeds. We can look forward to a better tomorrow if we do our best to make today better than yesterday. Cherish today, for today's wisdom brings tomorrow's bud into bloom. Tomorrow is the continuation of today. Finish today's work today, for in the days to come, there will be other work to do. Wisdom is seeing in the seed. Sow a good seed, in return you will reap the fruits when tomorrow comes. Author: T.A Chew Website: http://www.white-sun.com. |
